‘Work it and take care of it’ (Genesis 2:15): Investigating contemporary ecocide in Nigeria and the need for a legal policy

Abstract

<p>This paper explores the imperative for a legal policy addressing the ecological crisis in Nigeria, drawing insights from the biblical perspective of Genesis 2:15. This study adopted the narrative method with data gotten from literature and analysed using content analysis. Scholarly publications on ecological crises abound; however, this study goes a step further by providing responses from a legal and theological lens. Findings show that in Nigeria, large-scale deforestation, often driven by logging, agricultural expansion, and urbanisation, has contributed to the loss of critical ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and biodiversity. Rapid industrialisation and urbanisation in Nigeria have resulted in air pollution, primarily in major cities. The study advocates for the development and implementation of laws that address destruction of the environment, emphasising the interconnectedness of legal, ethical, and biblical principles in fostering sustainable environmental policies for Nigeria.</p>